Ylang Ylang Tree or Cananga odorata
You may not have heard of the Ylang Ylang Tree or know that the botanical name is Cananga odorata. However you have probably heard of Chanel No 5, probably the most famous perfume of all.
It is the Ylang Ylang flower along with Sandalwood, Vanilla and Rose that is said to make up this, and other perfumes including Eau Premiere. And yes you can grow you own Ylang Ylang tree, if you live in a tropical climate.
Originally from South East Asia and related to the custard apple, the Ylang Ylang Tree is is fairly fast growing reaching 10 – 20m in height depending on conditions. Flowers are yellow and spidery and not really a feature, it is the perfume they give of that is the attraction.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Perfume Tree’, the oil of the Ylang Ylang Tree is still widely used in some perfumes. In full flower the fragrance can permeate a garden on a warm night.
Care
Protection from strong winds is essential. This is a tree that requires a tropical to sub tropical climate, it can be grown as far south as Sydney in a warm position. Prefers a frost free position and full sun.
- Height – In good conditions the tree will reach 30 metres in height over time. However usually around 10 metres in cultivation.
- Spread – Will form a grown to around 5 metres across.
- Growth rate – Fast in good conditions.
- Foliage – Mid green.
- Flowers – Pale yellow.
- Flowering period – TheYlang Ylang Tree will flower a number of times each year in ideal conditions.
You can grow a smaller variety, Cananga fruticosa in a container. grown this way the tree will reach only around 2 metres in height, however the perfume will not be a strong as with Cananga odorata.
Available from the following nurseries
PARADISE DISTRIBUTORS – 07 5441 5921